6 Tips for 6 Weeks of Election Campaigning
Here we go, election time! 4 years on from my stint in party politics, I'm so lucky to be working with amazing campaigners on their election plans. Here are a few things I reckon are important to do.
Be Timely
Brenda from Bristol. The May-bot. Jeremy Corbyn eating a Pringle. The unknown is about to happen – and happen fast.
Charities are often bad at responding to things quickly, so put in place daily huddles, clear sign off procedures and easy to use tools and content creators. Then get things done quick.
2. Give Actions
..that are meaningful. Petitions won’t change the outcome of the General Election, people know that. Supporters deserve a clear theory of change. It could be challenging politicians or forming a local group for the first 100 days of a new Government.
3. Be Public
Behind closed door meetings alone won’t be enough to bring politicians promises to life. It matters what promises are made over the next 6 weeks and what issues are seen to swing the election. From protests to polling, show how many voters believe in your campaign.
4. Be Bold
The Conservatives have cracked down on our rights to protest, but we shouldn’t let them win.
NEON is organising free advice sessions and there are lots of free online advice guides to make sure you can protest while not putting your organisation at risk.
5. Provide Hope
Polls show people have lost faith in politicians and no longer believe the future will be better for their children. Let’s show people they have power and that change is possible. Build movements that are fun, accessible to all and actually win change!
6. Think beyond
When the dust settles, what will you have planned to influence the next Government? Depending on how big of a majority the government wins, there will be ways to influence. Will you have target MPs, op-eds or local organisers ready? Don’t assume things will be sorted by a new government!